Province Pledges $150,000 Hurricane Irma Support

Web posted on September 13, 2017

Premier Kathleen Wynne released the following statement today to announce Ontario's support for relief efforts for people affected by Hurricane Irma:

"On behalf of the people of Ontario, I extend our heartfelt compassion to all of the people who are suffering in the destructive aftermath of Hurricane Irma. With great concern, we continue to watch the disastrous effects of this event and know that it will be weeks, months and years before our friends in the Caribbean and U.S. are fully recovered. Right now, our hope is for the safety and well-being of all those affected, as well as the safe return of Ontarians who were trapped in the storm's path.

Our province knows how important it is to come to the aid of people around the world in times of disaster, and we are ready and willing to do so again. The Ontario government is contributing $150,000 to the Canadian Red Cross to help people in the Caribbean get back on their feet.

The impacts of the hurricane are as diverse as they are extensive, and we've offered our support to all those impacted. I have sent a letter to Florida Governor Rick Scott offering my sympathies and support. And I have informed Canada's federal government that Ontario stands ready to assist a Canadian response to the disaster.

Irma and its consequences are a worst nightmare come true for millions of people. The only good we can find along the path of devastation left by the storm is the generosity and perseverance of the human spirit - the inspiring stories of community and compassion that have lifted the spirits of those who lost everything. To see loved ones and strangers alike help each other find safety and begin the hard work of recovering from this disaster gives us all hope. We are proud of the employees at Hydro One who are on their way to Florida right now to use their skill and equipment in helping the millions of Floridians left without power. It is equally moving to hear stories of the EMS workers from Niagara who are travelling to Saint Martin to help provide essential medical services.

I want to thank every single person here in Ontario who has committed to help, and encourage everyone to consider making a personal donation to the Canadian Red Cross.

Ontario stands with people in times of need - we are ready to help the local communities in the long and arduous task of recovering and rebuilding from this terrible storm."